Opal: a Gemstone So Gorgeous, It’s Scary!

By Brittany Siminitz | October 16, 2024

I once had a great pair of opal earrings. From a very cool It-girl brand, they were a pair of studs bezel-set in gold, in a small size that ordinarily might have been inconsequential. But because they were opal, they positively gleamed.

I was afraid to wear them. I know, I know—ridiculous. But superstition always gets the best of me, and the fear of opal’s curse should one dare to wear it (if it’s not their birthstone) had me wary. I gave myself a pep talk, laughed off my insanity, and put them on.

I had a horrible day.

Look, I’d probably have had that very same day had I not been wearing the earrings. But when things don’t go our way, we find somewhere to point the blame. I slip on a banana peel, or eat a bad oyster? Someone gives me a dirty look, or cuts me off in traffic? If I’m wearing the opal earrings, I’d think, “Of course this is happening—I’m cursed!

I eventually sold the earrings to someone braver than I—or born in October, maybe—but ever the enchantress, opal has me locked under its spell. Older and (only a bit) wiser, I’m starting to once again feel defiant of this absurd old wives’ tale that has kept me from enjoying one of nature’s greatest creations. “Totally not real!” she says with authority.

Now it’s almost Halloween, a time for scares. So maybe, if I’m feeling a bit daredevilish, I’ll slip on an opal for the remainder of the season. I’ll just have to watch out for banana peels.

Here are some new jewels for others who can’t resist opal, curse or no curse.